Run through the Lights 5K draws hundreds to downtown Kalamazoo

KALAMAZOO, MI -- Runners of all ages packed the Kalamazoo Mall by the hundreds Thursday night, decked out in blinking lights, reindeer antlers, Santa hats and other festive gear for the annual Run Through the Lights, presented by Kalamazoo Area Runners and Gazelle Sports.

Organizers announced an attendance of more than 1,000 registrants, who ran or walked the 5K course -- untimed -- that looped through the downtown area. The course was closed to vehicle traffic for the first time.

Participants were encouraged to bring a food donation for Kalamazoo Loaves and Fishes, the event's charity partner, and were treated to a party afterward in a tent set up behind the store. Hot chocolate, soup, chili and doughnuts were on the menu, and prizes went out in several categories including best costume.